NOTE:These applications are only for certain and regular positions that will be contributing to every issue throughout the year. Students who don’t apply for these positions, or aren’t sure if they can definitely make that commitment, are still completely welcome to contribute as much as they like throughout the year.

All positions are voluntary due to a limited budget. However, successful Sub-Editors, Columnists, Artists and Photographers will be thanked through various means throughout the year (e.g. tickets, prizes) and, more importantly, achieve their goals of publication. For those considering a position as Editor in the future, it is recommended that you apply for a position within the magazine in order to develop skills well suited to the role. Positions are defined and created by the editors and, as such, the editors reserve the right to dismiss position holders. In most cases, this will happen in the instance the position holder has not worked according to their position description.

On merit alone, position holders of the previous year who have successfully upheld their role’s responsibilities may be accepted for the same position. However, if a previous position holder intends on contributing to a different section then they will have to reapply. For those who have previously held a position within the magazine and wish to do so again, please contact the editors to discuss your continuation within that role.

Sub-Editor Positions

Sub-Editors will be required to edit at least one article each issue of the magazine. The role of the Sub-Editor or “subbie” is mainly a copy-editing position, which involves making necessary changes to a submission according to the submission rubric, which is available via the Empire Times Contributors Facebook group under ‘Files’. Subbies will focus on grammar, punctuation, structure, flow, and concision. These changes will assist the author in publication. Sub-Editors will be required to edit an article within 48 hours of delivery and use track changes on Word to do so. The ability of Sub-Editors to manage their time and turn over their work is invaluable and imperative to the magazine’s production schedule. Sub-Editors do not require previous experience but a well-developed understanding of the English language is expected.

A subbie is a close, committed worker who is happy to help out if possible. Subbies are welcome to drop by the office, stay for a chat and are considered highly when choosing students for workshops or prizes. Subbies are also encouraged to contribute articles to the magazine but are not expected to do so. Sub-editing Empire Times is rewarding in that you are given the opportunity to develop your editing skills and understanding of the English language. You will also play an integral role in the publication of talented student writers and meet a variety of creative and passionate people.

How to apply:

We require applicants to answer the following questions with an appropriate level of detail. Please include these in a word document with your expression of interest.

What sections interest you the most in Empire Times?

What relevant skills and qualities do you have to offer?

How do you cope with deadlines?

Applicants may be asked to attend a short, informal interview to determine suitability for the role.

Columnist Positions

Columnists will be expected to write on their chosen topic for each issue beginning with this application. The role of a Columnist involves writing in accordance with the submission rubric, which is available via the Empire Times Contributors Facebook group under ‘Files’.

Please see the Submission Guidelines for word counts, submission process etc. Columnists may also be assigned roles for investigative pieces, interviews or reviews. They may be asked to review an event, band, theatre production or art exhibition. Editors will endeavour to acquire media passes wherever possible. Columnists are encouraged to collaborate with the editors and expected to regularly pitch article ideas to the editors and visa versa.

Columnists are the bread and butter of the magazine, and give the magazine consistency and stability. They represent the student body and voice while developing their writing and communication skills. These are the students who are capable of balancing study, life, and the magazine. They are also the successful, talented writers of the future, and ET is a perfect medium to develop their confidence and writing style. It is possible to write an anonymous column, e.g. in 2014 our Sex columnist went only by the name ‘Mistress M’.

How to apply:

There are two stages: an application stage and a submission.

Applicants will need to submit a cover letter and their first article/submission. The cover letter should outline the applicant’s vision for the column and provide evidence of their passion for the topic. No previous experience is required however a good knowledge of the English language and the ability to engage students is expected.

Empire Times is looking for Columnists in the area of:

Politics

Opinions

Features

Music

Film

Feminism

Sex

Science

Art

Technology and innovation

A day in the life of_____

For and Against (requires sourcing an opposing opinion) OR a Devil’s Advocate piece by one author

Rookie’s Guide To…

Insert creative column idea here!!!

We require applicants to answer the following questions with an appropriate level of detail. Please include these in a word document with your expression of interest.

1. What section would you like to be responsible for as a Columnist and why?

Describe your writing style and approach.

Describe your experience for this role.

How do you cope with deadlines?

How will you balance your study and role as Columnist?

Do you have any questions or comments for us?

Successful applicants may be asked to attend a short, informal interview. In the instance that multiple applications for a specific position passes the two stages, multiple positions may be created. The interview is a chance to get to know each other, talk about your involvement with the magazine and discuss your goals.

Artist Positions

Artists will endeavor to submit artwork to each issue however regularity can be discussed (e.g. contributing every second issue). Artists are not required to illustrate to pitches however it is a desired quality. In other words, editors will approach Artists to illustrate or design something specific (e.g. a dragon in a skirt). The editors reserve the right to alter and adapt artwork submitted to the magazine, but do not claim ownership over any artwork. Outside of minor adjustments such as cropping, colour, and contrast/brightness adjustments, the Artist will be made aware of any changes made to their work before publication with the approval of the Artist. Artwork will either be presented as a 1-2 page stand-alone art piece or accompany a relevant article (usually planned ahead of time in pitches).

Please note the Submission Guidelines available on the Empire Times Contributors Facebook group under ‘Files’.

Applicants will be expected to display technique and creativity through previous examples of their work. This can be in the format of a portfolio or otherwise. We also require applicants to answer the following questions with an appropriate level of detail. Please include these in a word document with your expression of interest.

What form of artwork would you like to explore?

What kind of mediums do you use?

Describe your experience for this role.

Can you draw to a theme?

What kinds of images do you illustrate/paint/design? (Can you illustrate faces/scenery/patterns etc.?)

How long does it take for you to illustrate or design an A4 page when given direction?

Do you have any questions or comments for us?

Applicants do not have to attend an interview however the editors would love to meet successful applicants over coffee if possible, or for a chat in the office.

Photographer Positions

Photographers shoot photos to compliment articles published in Empire Times and may be required to attend various events. There are opportunities for photo essays of student culture and photojournalism of local events. Photographers may also be required to source images for articles. The editors reserve the right to alter and adapt artwork submitted to the magazine, but do not claim ownership over any artwork. Outside of minor adjustments such as cropping, colour and contrast/brightness adjustments, the photographer will be made aware of any changes made to their work before publication with the approval of the Photographer.

Applicants will be expected to display technique and creativity through previous examples of their work. This can be in the format of a portfolio or otherwise. We also require applicants to answer the following questions with an appropriate level of detail. Please include these in a word document with your expression of interest.

What form of photography would you like to explore? (e.g. studio, photojournalism, portraits, experimental etc.)

What kind of equipment do you have?

Describe your experience for this role.

Do you have any questions or comments for us?

Applicants do not have to attend an interview however the editors would love to meet successful applicants over coffee, or for a chat in the office.